Display device and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

The present application relates to a display apparatus and a method for manufacturing the same, the display apparatus including a window, a display module, a protection film, a circuit board, a first area adhesive member, and a second area adhesive member. The window includes a first area providing a front surface and a second area bent from the first area and providing a side surface. The display module includes a first portion coupled to the window and a second portion extending from the first portion. The protection film includes a first film portion corresponding to the first portion and a second film portion corresponding to the second portion, and is disposed under the display module. The first area adhesive member couples the first portion and the first film portion. The second area adhesive member couples the second portion and the second film portion, and has an elastic modulus greater than that of the first area adhesive member. The circuit board is coupled to the second portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0084498, filed on July 12, 2019, and all benefits arising therefrom, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a display device and a method for manufacturing the display device, and more particularly to a display device having a curved region and a method for manufacturing the display device. Background Technology

[0004] Various display devices have been developed for multimedia applications, such as televisions, mobile phones, tablets, navigation units, and game consoles. Each of these display devices includes a keyboard, mouse, or remote control as an input unit. Display devices also include touch panels as input units.

[0005] In recent years, curved display devices, foldable display devices, and rollable display devices have been under development. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a display device that provides an image through its front surface and side surfaces.

[0007] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for manufacturing a display device to reduce defects.

[0008] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a display device comprising: a window including a first region providing a front surface and a second region curved from the first region and providing a side surface; a display module including a first portion connected to the window and a second portion extending from the first portion; a protective film including a first film portion corresponding to the first portion and a second film portion corresponding to the second portion, the protective film being disposed below the display module; a first region adhesive member connecting the first portion and the first film portion; a second region adhesive member connecting the second portion and the second film portion, and having an elastic modulus greater than that of the first region adhesive member; and a circuit board connected to the second portion.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the first region adhesive member may have an elastic modulus of about 0.01 megapascals (MPa) to about 10 MPa, and the second region adhesive member may have an elastic modulus of about 1 MPa to about 200 MPa.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the first region adhesive member may have a thickness greater than that of the second region adhesive member.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the first region adhesive member may have a thickness of about 1 micrometer (μm) to 100 μm, and the second region adhesive member may have a thickness of about 1 μm to 100 μm.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the first membrane portion may have a thickness less than that of the second membrane portion.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the first membrane portion may have an area larger than that of the second membrane portion.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the first membrane portion may be spaced apart from the second membrane portion.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the second region may also be provided with a curved surface, and the second region may include a curved region providing a curved surface and a side region providing a side surface.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the curved region may have a radius of curvature of about 2 millimeters (mm) to about 5 millimeters.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the angle between the first region and the side region can be from about 80 degrees (°) to about 90 degrees.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the side surface may have a width of about 4 mm to about 8 mm.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the front surface may be defined by a first direction axis and a second direction axis, and the second region may include two curved regions facing each other and overlapping the display module on the first direction axis, and two curved regions facing each other and overlapping the display module on the second direction axis.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion may protrude to the outside of one of the curved regions.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the display module may further include a display panel, an input sensor disposed on the display panel, and an anti-reflective unit disposed on the display panel.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the second portion may be bent such that the second portion faces the first portion.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, a first region adhesive member may be attached to the entire first part, and a second region adhesive member may be attached to the entire second part.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the second region adhesive member may be attached to a portion of the first portion.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a display device includes: providing a window comprising a first region providing a front surface and a second region curved from the first region to provide side surfaces; placing a work panel on a pressure pad, wherein the work panel includes a display module, a first adhesive member disposed on an upper surface of the display module, a protective film disposed below the display module, a second adhesive member connecting the display module and the protective film, a carrier film disposed below the protective film, and a carrier adhesive member connecting the carrier film and the protective film; attaching the work panel to the window via the pressure pad such that the first adhesive member is attached to the first region and the second region; and separating the carrier adhesive member, the carrier film, and the pressure pad from the protective film. Here, the display module includes a first portion connected to the window via the first adhesive member and a second portion extending from the first portion, the protective film includes a first film portion corresponding to the first portion and a second film portion corresponding to the second portion, and the second adhesive member includes a first region adhesive member connecting the first portion and the first film portion and a second region adhesive member connecting the second portion and the second film portion and having an elastic modulus greater than that of the first region adhesive member.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: photocuring the carrier adhesive member between the working panel being attached to the window and the carrier adhesive member, carrier film, and pressure pad separated from the protective film.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: after separating the carrier adhesive member, the carrier film and the pressure pad from the protective film, connecting the circuit board to a second part of the display module. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0031] Figures 3A to 3D It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken by line I-I';

[0032] Figure 4A This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display module according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4B It is along Figure 4AA sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0034] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4A A sectional view taken from line III-III';

[0035] Figures 4D to 4F It is along Figure 4A A sectional view taken from line II-II';

[0036] Figures 5A to 5G This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a process for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 A sectional view taken by line IV-IV';

[0040] Figure 9 This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display module according to the present invention; and

[0041] Figures 10A to 10C This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a process for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] In this specification, it will also be understood that when a component (or region, layer, part) is referred to as being “on”, “connected to” or “attached to” another component, it may be directly set / connected / attached to said other component, or a third component may be present therein.

[0043] Throughout the text, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of the components are exaggerated for clarity. The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0044] It should be understood that although terms such as “first” and “second” are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from others. For example, an element referred to as a first element in one exemplary embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise stated, singular terms may include plural forms.

[0045] In addition, terms such as "below," "under," "above," and "upper" are used to explain the relationships between the components shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms can be relative concepts and are described based on the directions expressed in the drawings.

[0046] The meaning of "includes" or "contains" is to indicate a characteristic, a fixed quantity, a step, an operation, a component, an assembly, or a combination thereof, but does not exclude other characteristics, fixed quantities, steps, operations, components, assemblies, or combinations thereof.

[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms, including “at least one.” “Or” means “and / or.” As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” or “including” and / or “comprising” indicate the presence of the described features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, areas, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0048] As used herein, “about” or “approximately” includes the value and the average of the value within an acceptable range of deviations from the particular value, determined by a person skilled in the art considering the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” may mean within one or more standard deviations of the value, or within ±30%, 20%, 10%, or 5%.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Terms as defined in a common dictionary shall be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the relevant technical context, and unless explicitly defined in the specification, these terms shall not be ideally or excessively interpreted as having a formal meaning.

[0050] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display device DD according to the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display device DD according to the present invention.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device DD can display an image through the display surface DD-IS. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the display surface DD-IS can include a display area DD-DA and a non-display area DD-NDA. The difference between the display area DD-DA and the non-display area DD-NDA depends on whether an image is displayed. The non-display area DD-NDA is the area where no image is displayed.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, the non-display area DD-NDA may surround the display area DD-DA. However, the invention is not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the display area DD-DA and the non-display area DD-NDA may be designed to be opposite in shape.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the non-display area DD-NDA may have an island shape disposed within the display area DD-DA. The non-display area DD-NDA may have an area smaller than that of the display area DD-DA and overlap with the camera module, the light sensor, and the infrared sensor. A transmission region through which light signals are transmitted may be provided in the non-display area DD-NDA.

[0055] The display surface DD-IS can have a three-dimensional (“3D”) shape. The display surface DD-IS can be divided into multiple regions according to its shape. The display surface DD-IS can include a non-curved region NBA and a curved region BA. An exemplary illustration is provided of a display device DD including two curved regions BA.

[0056] The non-curved region NBA provides the front surface of the display device DD, and the curved region BA provides at least the side surface of the display device DD. In an exemplary embodiment, the curved region BA may include a curved region CA and a side region SA. The curved region CA may provide a curved surface, and the side region SA may provide a flat surface. Essentially, the front and side surfaces of the display device DD are provided by and implemented by the window WM, which will be described below.

[0057] The non-curved region NBA, i.e., the front surface of the display device DD, is defined by the first direction axis DR1 and the second direction axis DR2. The normal direction of the front surface of the display device DD, i.e., the thickness direction of the display device DD, is represented by the third direction axis DR3. Hereinafter, the front (or upper) surface and rear (or lower) surface of each component or unit are distinguished by the third direction axis DR3. However, the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, and the third direction axis DR3 in the exemplary embodiment are merely illustrative. Hereinafter, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction can be directions indicated by the first direction axis DR1, the second direction axis DR2, and the third direction axis DR3, and are respectively designated by the same reference numerals.

[0058] While a display device DD comprising three distinct regions has been exemplarily described in the exemplary embodiments, the invention is not limited thereto. In the exemplary embodiments of the invention, a display device DD comprising a 3D display surface DD-IS having more distinct regions can be applied.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, a display device DD suitable for a mobile phone terminal is illustrated. Although not shown, electronic modules, camera modules, and power modules disposed (e.g., mounted) on a motherboard can be mounted together with the display device DD on a bracket or housing to constitute a mobile phone terminal. Exemplary embodiments of the display device DD according to the present invention can be used in large electronic devices (such as televisions and displays) as well as small and medium-sized electronic devices (such as tablet computers, vehicle navigation units, game consoles, and smartwatches).

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown, the display device DD includes a window WM, an anti-reflective unit RP, an input sensor IS, a display panel DP, a first circuit board FPCB, and a protective film LF. Figure 2 The adhesive components connecting these components are not shown in the diagram. The first circuit board (FPCB) may be part of the drive control module (DCM), which will be described later.

[0061] exist Figure 2 In the process, each of the anti-reflective unit RP, input sensor IS, display panel DP, and protective film LF is in a flat state before being connected to the window WM. Figure 1 The non-curved area NBA, curved area CA, and side area SA of the display device DD can be defined separately in each of the window WM, anti-reflective unit RP, input sensor IS, display panel DP, and protective film LF.

[0062] like Figure 2As shown, the window WM includes a first region WM-NBA (or a flat region) providing a front surface and a second region WM-BA that curves from the first region WM-NBA and provides at least a side surface. An exemplary illustration is provided of a window WM including two second regions WM-BA (or curved regions). The first region WM-NBA and the second region WM-BA correspond to... Figure 1 The non-curved area NBA and the curved area BA of the display device DD.

[0063] The anti-reflective unit RP reduces the reflectivity of external light incident from above the window WM. The anti-reflective unit RP may include a retarder and / or a polarizer. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the retarder may be a film-type or a liquid crystal coating-type, and may include a λ / 2 retarder and / or a λ / 4 retarder. The polarizer may also be a film-type or a liquid crystal coating-type. The film-type may include a flexible synthetic resin film, and the liquid crystal coating-type may include liquid crystals arranged in a predetermined pattern. Each of the retarder and polarizer may also include a protective film.

[0064] An exemplary embodiment of the anti-reflective unit RP according to the present invention may include color filters. The color filters may have a predetermined arrangement. The arrangement of the color filters may be determined according to the emission colors of the pixels contained in the display panel DP. The anti-reflective unit RP may also include a black matrix adjacent to the color filters. The anti-reflective unit RP may also include an insulating layer.

[0065] An exemplary embodiment of the antireflective unit RP according to the present invention may include a destructive interference structure. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer, which are disposed on different layers from each other. The first reflected light and the second reflected light reflected by the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can mutually destructively interfere with each other, thereby reducing the reflectivity of external light.

[0066] An input sensor (IS) acquires coordinate information from external inputs (e.g., touch events). An input sensor (IS) comprises multiple intersecting electrodes. External inputs can be detected using capacitive methods, electromagnetic induction methods, or ultrasonic detection methods.

[0067] The display panel DP can be an organic light-emitting display panel. The display panel DP includes a pixel region PXA containing pixels PX and a non-pixel region NPXA adjacent to the pixel region PXA. In the non-pixel region NPXA, no pixels PX are provided, but peripheral components such as signal lines and retaining walls are provided. The pixel region PXA and the non-pixel region NPXA can respectively correspond to display areas DD-DA (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 1 ) and non-display area DD-NDA (see Figure 1In this specification, the expression "region / part corresponds to region / part" means "overlapping", and this expression is not limited to states with the same area.

[0068] Multiple pixels PX can be provided, and each pixel PX can be connected to a corresponding signal line. A pixel PX may include a first thin-film transistor (“TFT”) TR1, a second TFT TR2, a capacitor CP, and a light-emitting element ELD. However, the invention is not limited to this. Figure 2 The driving circuit for pixel PX in the image.

[0069] The first TFT TR1 is connected to the gate line GL and the data line DL. The light-emitting element ELD receives the power supply voltage from the power line PL. Pads connected to the signal lines (such as the data line DL and the power line PL) are disposed in the non-pixel area NPXA. The pads PDD can be integrated with the signal lines, or they can be disposed on a different layer from the signal lines and connected to one end of the signal lines through contact holes passing through the insulating layer.

[0070] The drive control module (DCM) may include a first circuit board (FPCB) connected to the display panel (DP), a second circuit board (MPCB) connected to the first circuit board (FPCB), a first driver chip (D-IC) disposed (e.g., mounted) on the first circuit board (FPCB), and a second driver chip (M-IC) disposed (e.g., mounted) on the second circuit board (MPCB). The first driver chip (D-IC) may provide data signals and / or gate signals to the display panel (DP), as well as other control signals. The second driver chip (M-IC) may include a timing controller that converts image signals into data signals.

[0071] Although not shown separately, multiple passive components and multiple active components can be configured (e.g., mounted) onto the second circuit board MPCB. The driver chip for the control input sensor IS can be configured (e.g., mounted) onto the second circuit board MPCB. The second circuit board MPCB can be a rigid or flexible circuit board, while the first circuit board FPCB can be a flexible circuit board. Although not shown separately, the second circuit board MPCB can be electrically connected to another electronic module via a connector.

[0072] A protective film LF is disposed below the display panel DP to support and protect the display panel DP. The protective film LF may include a synthetic resin film. Although not shown separately, a lower component may be disposed below the protective film LF. The lower component may include a light-shielding component and an elastic component. The light-shielding component prevents external light from penetrating the display panel DP through the rear surface of the display panel DP. The light-shielding component may be a black synthetic resin film. The elastic component absorbs external impacts to protect the display panel DP from external shocks. The elastic component may include a foamed synthetic resin, such as a polyurethane foam board. Additionally, the lower component may also include a metal plate. The lower component may include a plastic bracket or a metal bracket. The aforementioned bracket may share support with other lower components. Figure 2 The display device DD in the middle.

[0073] Figures 3A to 3D It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figures 3A to 3D This represents a section defined by the second direction axis DR2 and the third direction axis DR3. (Simply shown) Figures 3A to 3D This is to illustrate the lamination relationship between the components of the display device DD.

[0074] An exemplary embodiment of the display device DD according to the present invention may include reference Figure 2 The description includes a window WM, an anti-reflective unit RP, an input sensor IS, a display panel DP, and a protective film LF. The laminated structure of the anti-reflective unit RP, the input sensor IS, and the display panel DP can be defined as a display module DM. One of the anti-reflective unit RP or the input sensor IS can be omitted from the display module DM.

[0075] At least some of the anti-reflective unit RP, input sensor IS, and display panel DP can be supplied via a continuous process or interconnected via adhesive components. Figures 3A to 3D The adhesive member AM is shown in the figure. In an exemplary embodiment, the adhesive member AM may be a transparent adhesive member, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive film (“PSA”), an optically transparent adhesive film (“OCA”), or an optically transparent resin (“OCR”).

[0076] Reference Figure 2In the described anti-reflective unit RP and input sensor IS, the component provided together with another component via a continuous process is described as a "layer". In the anti-reflective unit RP and input sensor IS, the component connected to another component by an adhesive member is described as a "panel". The panel may include a base layer providing a substrate, such as a synthetic resin film, composite film, or glass substrate. However, a "layer" may not include a base layer. In other words, the aforementioned unit, described as a "layer", is disposed on a substrate provided by another unit. Depending on the presence or absence of a base layer, the anti-reflective unit RP and input sensor IS may be referred to as an anti-reflective panel RPP and an input sensing panel ISP, or an anti-reflective layer RPL and an input sensing layer ISL.

[0077] like Figure 3A As shown, the display device DD may include a window WM, an anti-reflective panel RPP, an input sensing layer ISL, a display panel DP, and a protective film LF. The input sensing layer ISL is directly disposed on the display panel DP. In this specification, the statement "component B is directly disposed on component A" indicates that no additional adhesive layer / adhesive member is disposed between component A and component B. Component B can be disposed on the base surface provided by component A through a continuous process after component A is provided.

[0078] An adhesive component AM is provided between the input sensing layer ISL and the anti-reflective panel RPP, between the anti-reflective panel RPP and the window WM, and between the display panel DP and the protective film LF.

[0079] An exemplary embodiment of the window WM according to the present invention includes a base layer WP-BS and a border pattern WP-BZ. The base layer WP-BS may include a glass substrate and / or a synthetic resin film. However, the present invention is not limited to a base layer WP-BS having a single layer. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the base layer WP-BS may include two or more films interconnected by an adhesive member.

[0080] The border pattern WP-BZ partially overlaps with the base layer WP-BS. The border pattern WP-BZ can be set on the rear surface of the base layer WP-BS to define the border area, namely, the non-display area DD-NDA of the display device DD.

[0081] The border pattern WP-BZ, as a colored organic layer, can be provided by, for example, a coating method. The border pattern WP-BZ may include multiple organic layers. A predetermined pattern may be defined in some of these organic layers. Although not shown separately, the window WM may further include a functional coating disposed on the front surface of the base layer WP-BS. This functional coating may include an anti-fingerprint layer, an anti-reflective layer, and a hard coating. Figures 3B to 3D In the image, the window WM is simply shown without any distinction between the base layer WP-BS and the border pattern WP-BZ.

[0082] like Figure 3B As shown, the display device DD may include a window WM, an anti-reflective layer RPL, an input sensing layer ISL, a display panel DP, and a protective film LF. The lamination order of the input sensing layer ISL and the anti-reflective layer RPL can be changed. For example... Figure 3C As shown, the display device DD may include a window WM, an anti-reflective panel RPP, an input sensor panel ISP, a display panel DP, and a protective film LF. The lamination order of the anti-reflective panel RPP and the input sensor panel ISP can be changed.

[0083] exist Figure 3D In, it is shown that it has the same as Figure 3A The display device DD has the same laminated structure as the one shown. However, the curved region CA is omitted, and the display device DD includes a non-curved region NBA and a side region SA. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it has the same... Figure 3D Display devices DD with the same shape as the one in the middle can have Figure 3B and Figure 3C The laminated structure in the middle.

[0084] Figure 4A This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display module DM according to the present invention. Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A The sectional view taken from line II-II'. Figure 4C It is along Figure 4A The sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figures 4D to 4F It is along Figure 4A A sectional view taken along line II-II'. (And...) Figure 4A In comparison, Figures 4B to 4F In the middle, an additional window WM is shown.

[0085] exist Figure 4A The diagram shows the display area DM-DA and the non-display area DM-NDA of the display module DM, which respectively correspond to... Figure 1 The display area DD-DA and the non-display area DD-NDA are shown in the figure. Figures 4A to 4F As shown, the display module DM includes a first part DM-P1 connected to the window WM and a second part DM-P2 extending from the first part DM-P1. Figures 4B to 4F The image shows a simplified illustration of the display module DM.

[0086] The first part DM-P1 can be the area connected to the window WM. The first part DM-P1 can be the area of ​​the display module DM that contacts the first adhesive member AM1. The second part DM-P2 can be the area not connected to the window WM. The second part DM-P2 extends outwards from the first part DM-P1 in the plane. Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 4Eand Figure 4F As shown, at least a portion of the second part DM-P2 in the unfolded state does not overlap with window WM.

[0087] Display panel DP (see) Figures 2 to 3D This includes sections corresponding to the first part DM-P1 and the second part DM-P2. Although the anti-reflective unit RP (see...) Figure 2 ) and input sensor IS (see Figure 2 Each of the components may include a portion corresponding to the first portion DM-P1 and the second portion DM-P2, but the invention is not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, each of the anti-reflective unit RP and the input sensor IS may include only the portion corresponding to the first portion DM-P1. The first circuit board FPCB (see...) Figure 2 It can be connected to the part of the display panel DP that corresponds to the second part DM-P2.

[0088] The second part DM-P2 has a smaller area than the first part DM-P1. The width of the second part DM-P2 on the second direction axis DR2 may be smaller than the width of the first part DM-P1 on the second direction axis DR2. The first part DM-P1 can be connected to the display area DD-DA (see...). Figure 1 ) and non-display area DD-NDA (see Figure 1 The two parts overlap, and the second part DM-P2 can correspond to the non-display area DD-NDA.

[0089] The protective film LF includes a first film portion LF-P1 corresponding to the first portion DM-P1 and a second film portion LF-P2 corresponding to the second portion DM-P2. The second film portion LF-P2 has a smaller area than the first film portion LF-P1. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first portion DM-P1 and the first film portion LF-P1 may have the same shape as each other. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0090] The second adhesive component AM2, which connects the protective film LF and the display module DM, includes adhesive components for different areas. See also... Figures 4B to 4FA first region adhesive member AM-P1 connects a first portion DM-P1 and a first film portion LF-P1, and a second region adhesive member AM-P2 connects a second portion DM-P2 and a second film portion LF-P2. The second region adhesive member AM-P2 has a higher elastic modulus than the first region adhesive member AM-P1. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the elastic modulus of the first region adhesive member AM-P1 may be from about 0.01 MPa to about 10 MPa, and the elastic modulus of the second region adhesive member AM-P2 may be from about 1 MPa to about 200 MPa. By providing adhesive members with different moduli for each region, crack defects in the window WM are reduced, and the first circuit board FPCB (see [link to FPCB]) can be improved. Figure 2 The connection characteristics of ( ). A detailed description will be provided with reference to the manufacturing method.

[0091] See Figures 4A to 4C The first region adhesive member AM-P1 overlaps at least with the region corresponding to the non-curved region NBA of each of the first portion DM-P1 and the first membrane portion LF-P1.

[0092] See Figures 4B to 4D The first region adhesive member AM-P1 can be disposed on the entire first portion DM-P1 and the first membrane portion LF-P1. See also Figure 4E and Figure 4F The first region adhesive member AM-P1 may not overlap with a portion of each of the first portion DM-P1 and the first membrane portion LF-P1.

[0093] See Figures 4A to 4F The second region adhesive member AM-P2 may be disposed on the entire second portion DM-P2 and the second film portion LF-P2. However, the invention is not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the second region adhesive member AM-P2 may overlap only a portion of each of the second portion DM-P2 and the second film portion LF-P2. The second region adhesive member AM-P2 is associated with the pad PDD (see...). Figure 2 )overlapping.

[0094] like Figure 4B and Figure 4C As shown, the protective film LF can have a monolithic shape. The protective film LF can have a uniform thickness. The first area adhesive member AM-P1 and the second area adhesive member AM-P2 can have substantially the same thickness.

[0095] Because the first region adhesive member AM-P1, which has a small modulus and a large thickness, is disposed on the curved region CA, the side region SA, and the non-curved region NBA in the portion of the region adjacent to the curved region CA, the stress provided from the display module DM and the first film portion LF-P1 to the second region WM-BA of the window WM can be reduced.

[0096] like Figure 4D and Figure 4F As shown, the first membrane portion LF-P1 and the second membrane portion LF-P2 can be different membranes from each other. The first membrane portion LF-P1 can have a greater thickness than the second membrane portion LF-P2. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the thickness of the first regional adhesive member AM-P1 can be from about 1 micrometer (μm) to about 100 μm, and the thickness of the second regional adhesive member AM-P2 can be from about 1 μm to about 100 μm. The thickness of the first membrane portion LF-P1 can be less than the thickness of the second membrane portion LF-P2. The sum of the thicknesses of the first regional adhesive member AM-P1 and the first membrane portion LF-P1 can be substantially the same as the sum of the thicknesses of the second regional adhesive member AM-P2 and the second membrane portion LF-P2.

[0097] like Figure 4D As shown, the second part DM-P2 can be bent to face the first part DM-P1. The second part DM-P2 can be bent with a predetermined curvature.

[0098] like Figure 4E As shown, the second region adhesive member AM-P2 may overlap with a portion of the first portion DM-P1. However, the second region adhesive member AM-P2 does not overlap with the region corresponding to the non-curved region NBA in each of the first portion DM-P1 and the first membrane portion LF-P1.

[0099] like Figure 4F As shown, in a plane, the first membrane portion LF-P1 is separated from the second membrane portion LF-P2. In the plane, the first area bonding member AM-P1 and the second area bonding member AM-P2 can also be separated from each other. The spacing reduces the stress generated when the second portion DM-P2 is bent.

[0100] Figures 5A to 5G This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a process for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention. Figures 5A to 5C It is along Figure 4A The sectional view taken from line III-III'. Figure 5D to 5G It is along Figure 4A A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'. In an exemplary embodiment, the manufacture is described exemplarily. Figure 4B and Figure 4C The process of display devices DD in China.

[0101] like Figure 5A and Figure 5D As shown, a window WM is provided. The window WM includes a first area WM-NBA and a second area WM-BA. The second area WM-BA may include a curved area CA and a side area SA respectively connected to the display device DD (see...). Figure 1 The corresponding curved region WM-CA and side region WM-SA. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the radius of curvature WM-R of the curved region WM-CA can be from about 2 mm to about 5 mm. The radius of curvature WM-R can be measured at the outer or inner surface of the window WM.

[0102] In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the angle between the first region WM-NBA and the side region WM-SA may be from about 80 degrees (°) to about 90 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the width SS-W of the side surface provided by the side region WM-SA on the third directional axis DR3 may be from about 4 mm to about 8 mm.

[0103] The working panel WP is mounted on the pressure pad SPD. The working panel WP includes a display module DM, a first adhesive member AM1 disposed on the upper surface of the display module DM, a protective film LF disposed below the display module DM, a second adhesive member AM2 connecting the display module DM and the protective film LF, a carrier film CF disposed below the protective film LF, and a carrier adhesive member AD connecting the carrier film CF and the protective film LF. The pressure pad SPD may be a silicone pad.

[0104] The work panel WP and the window WM are aligned with each other, and then the work panel WP and the window WM are joined. The first adhesive member AM1 is joined to the first area WM-NBA and the second area WM-BA.

[0105] Subsequently, the carrier bonding component AD, the carrier film CF, and the pressure pad SPD are separated from the protective film LF.

[0106] like Figure 5B and Figure 5E As shown, a photocuring process can be selectively performed on the carrier-bonded component AD after the pressure pad SPD has been removed. The adhesive strength of the carrier-bonded component AD can be weakened by irradiating it with ultraviolet (UV) light.

[0107] like Figure 5C and Figure 5F As shown, the carrier adhesive member AD, which has weakened adhesive strength, can be separated from the protective film LF together with the carrier film CF. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a photocuring process may be omitted. Although a photocuring process is omitted, since an adhesive member with relatively weak adhesive strength is applied to the carrier adhesive member AD, the carrier adhesive member AD and the carrier film CF can be removed from the protective film LF without delamination of the first adhesive member AM1 and the second adhesive member AM2.

[0108] Next, as Figure 5GAs shown, a further process can be performed to connect the drive control module (DCM) to the display module (DM). Furthermore, a further process can be performed to connect the lower component to the underside of the protective film (LF). However, the present invention is not specifically limited to the order of the connection process and the lower component connection process.

[0109] See Figures 5A to 5G Because the first adhesive member AM-P1, which has a relatively small elastic modulus, is disposed in the bending region WM-BA, the stress applied to the bending region WM-BA by the display module DM and the protective film LF can be reduced. The bending stress is also reduced because each of the first adhesive member AM1 and the second adhesive member AM2 extends within the bending region WM-BA.

[0110] Because the second-region adhesive member AM-P2, which has a relatively large elastic modulus, is positioned between the connecting portion of the display module DM and the protective film LF, the connecting portion of the display module DM can have relatively greater strength compared to the bent portion of the display module DM. When the strength of the connecting portion of the display module DM is greater than the reference strength, the connection force between the drive control module DCM and the display module DM can be increased, and defects generated in the bonding process can be reduced.

[0111] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention. Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a display device according to the present invention. Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The sectional view taken along line IV-IV'. References will be omitted below. Figures 1 to 5F Detailed description of the same components.

[0112] like Figure 6 As shown, the display surface DD-IS includes a display area DD-DA and multiple non-display areas DD-NDA1 and DD-NDA2. The multiple non-display areas DD-NDA1 and DD-NDA2 include a first non-display area DD-NDA1 and a second non-display area DD-NDA2.

[0113] The display surface DD-IS may include a non-curved region NBA and four curved regions BA. Additionally, the display surface DD-IS may include four corner curved regions CBA. Each of the corner curved regions CBA is positioned between two adjacent curved regions BA. At least a portion of each corner curved region CBA may be a non-display region DD-NDA. The four corner curved regions CBA may each correspond to four second non-display regions DD-NDA2. The four first non-display regions DD-NDA1 may each correspond to the edge regions of the four curved regions BA.

[0114] like Figure 7 As shown, window WM may include a first region WM-NBA (or a planar region), four second regions WM-BA (or curved regions), and four third regions WM-CBA (or corner regions). The four second regions WM-BA and the four third regions WM-CBA correspond to... Figure 6 The display device DD has four curved regions BA and four corner curved regions CBA. Two of the four curved regions WM-BA face each other on the first direction axis DR1, and the other two face each other on the second direction axis DR2.

[0115] See Figures 6 to 8 The display module DM overlaps with all four curved areas WM-BA. The second part of the display module DM, DM-P2, can extend outward from one of the four curved areas WM-BA.

[0116] Figure 9 This is a plan view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the display module according to the present invention. Figures 10A to 10C This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a process for manufacturing a display device according to the present invention.

[0117] like Figure 9 As shown, the display module DM includes a first part DM-P1 connected to the window WM and a second part DM-P2 extending from the first part DM-P1. The display module DM may include a non-curved area DM-NBA and four curved areas DM-BA, which respectively correspond to Figure 6 The non-curved area NBA and the four curved areas BA.

[0118] The method for manufacturing a display device in the exemplary embodiment can be compared with that in reference to Figures 5A to 5F The methods for manufacturing display devices described are essentially the same. Although Figures 10A to 10C It's about along Figure 9 It is shown as a cross-sectional view taken from line II-II', but Figures 10A to 10C Corresponding to Figures 5D to 5F .because Figure 2 WM and windows in the middle Figure 7 The shapes of the windows (WM) differ, and the cross-sections of their manufacturing processes also differ.

[0119] In cross-section, the curved region DM-BA of the display module DM is connected to the second region WM-BA of the window WM via a first adhesive member AM1. Because the first region adhesive member AM-P1, which has a relatively small elastic modulus, is disposed within the curved region WM-BA, the stress applied to the curved region WM-BA of the window WM by the display module DM and the protective film LF can be reduced. Furthermore, the bending stress can be reduced because each of the first adhesive member AM1 and the second adhesive member AM2 extends within the curved region WM-BA.

[0120] In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the following can be omitted: Figure 10B The photocuring process in [the context of the text].

[0121] As described above, the stress applied to the second region of the window by the bending of the display module and the protective film can be reduced. Since a first-region adhesive member with a relatively small elastic modulus is disposed between the display module and the protective film, the stress generated at the bent portions of the display module and the protective film (each of which has a small radius of curvature) can be reduced. Therefore, crack defects in the window can be reduced.

[0122] Because a second-region adhesive component with a relatively large elastic modulus is placed between the connection portion of the display module and the protective film, the connection portion of the display module can have relatively greater strength compared to the bent portion of the display module. When the strength of the bent portion of the display module is greater than the reference strength, the connection force between the circuit board and the display module can be increased, and defects generated in the connection process can be reduced.

[0123] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to these embodiments, but rather various changes and modifications that can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed in the appended claims.

[0124] Therefore, the actual scope of protection of this invention will be determined by the technical scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A window includes a first region providing a front surface and a second region curving from the first region and providing a side surface; The display module includes a first portion connected to the window and a second portion extending from the first portion; The protective film includes a first film portion corresponding to the first part and a second film portion corresponding to the second part, and the protective film is disposed below the display module; A first region adhesive component connects the first portion and the first membrane portion; The second region adhesive member connects the second part and the second film part, and has an elastic modulus greater than that of the first region adhesive member. as well as The circuit board is connected to the second part. The first region adhesive component has a thickness greater than that of the second region adhesive component. The first membrane portion has a thickness that is less than that of the second membrane portion.

2. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first region adhesive component has an elastic modulus of 0.01 MPa to 10 MPa, and The second region adhesive component has an elastic modulus of 1 MPa to 200 MPa.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first region adhesive component has a thickness of 1 micrometer to 100 micrometers, and The second region adhesive component has a thickness of 1 micrometer to 100 micrometers.

4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first membrane portion has an area larger than that of the second membrane portion.

5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first membrane portion is separated from the second membrane portion.

6. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second region also provides a curved surface, and The second region includes a curved region providing the curved surface and a side region providing the side surface.

7. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The curved region has a radius of curvature of 2 to 5 millimeters.

8. The display device according to claim 6, wherein, The angle between the first region and the side region is 80 to 90 degrees.

9. The display device according to claim 8, wherein, The side surface has a width of 4 mm to 8 mm.

10. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The front surface is defined by a first direction axis and a second direction axis. The second region includes two curved regions that face each other and overlap with the display module on the first direction axis, and two curved regions that face each other and overlap with the display module on the second direction axis.

11. The display device according to claim 10, wherein, The second portion protrudes to the outside of one of the curved regions.

12. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The display module further includes: Display panel; Input sensors are mounted on the display panel; and An anti-reflective unit is provided on the display panel.

13. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second part is bent so that the second part faces the first part.

14. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The first region adhesive member is attached to the entire first part, and the second region adhesive member is attached to the entire second part.

15. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The second region adhesive component is attached to a portion of the first part.

16. A method for manufacturing a display device, the method comprising: A window is provided, the window including a first region providing a front surface and a second region curved from the first region to provide a side surface; A work panel is placed on the pressure pad, wherein the work panel includes: Display module, A first adhesive component is disposed on the upper surface of the display module. A protective film is disposed below the display module. The second adhesive component connects the display module and the protective film. A carrier membrane is disposed below the protective membrane, and A carrier bonding component connects the carrier film and the protective film; The working panel is connected to the window via the pressure pad, such that the first adhesive member is connected to the first region and the second region; and Separate the carrier adhesive member, the carrier film, and the pressure pad from the protective film; The display module includes a first portion connected to the window via the first adhesive member and a second portion extending from the first portion; The protective film includes a first film portion corresponding to the first portion and a second film portion corresponding to the second portion, and The second adhesive member includes a first region adhesive member and a second region adhesive member, wherein the first region adhesive member connects the first part and the first film part, the second region adhesive member connects the second part and the second film part, and has an elastic modulus greater than that of the first region adhesive member.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The carrier adhesive component is photocured between the connection of the working panel to the window and the separation of the carrier adhesive component, the carrier film, and the pressure pad from the protective film.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: After separating the carrier adhesive member, the carrier film, and the pressure pad from the protective film, the circuit board is connected to the second part of the display module.

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